Vladimíra Novotná: it is harder for women, therefore, even the slightest success is all the more pleasing

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You belong among the ten most cited women at FZU. What advice would you give to younger colleagues so that they succeeded in the scientific competition?

Don't give up. Be persistent and patient. Don't get discouraged. If you feel like your kids are holding you back, they'll grow up fast and won't need you. Be happy that you have a profession that fulfils you and someone at home who loves you.

Is physics a gender-neutral challenge for scientists, or is it in science more difficult for women?

It is harder for women, therefore, even the slightest success is all the more pleasing.

In which fields of physics do you think female scientists are most successful?

In my opinion, women are better in areas where two or more fields overlap. We may be better at multitasking than men.

Who, do you think, could be the equivalent of Emma Noether in today's world? 

The world is different today and women no longer have to struggle with such obstacles. The truth is that there are still not many female Nobel Prize winners in physics. But times are changing, and I believe for the better.